O-Soto-Gake Meaning in Judo

O-Soto-Gake is a major outer hook throw used to trip the opponent. The attacker hooks the leg of the defender from the outside firmly. A strong push to the chest drives the opponent over the leg. This motion causes the defender to fall backward onto the mat surface. The attacker maintains a tight grip on the uniform during the fall. One game example involves a player hooking the leg to score points. This move works best when the opponent is moving toward the rear. Success requires the player to time the hook with the backward step. The attacker must use the body weight to follow through the trip. Strategy involves catching the opponent when their weight is heavy on the heel. This technique provides a very direct way to take an opponent down.